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Grade: D
Cd » Bob Dylan's worst album is 1970's "Self Portrait," where he wrestled with cover songs by other artists. While the troubadour's first Christmas album, "Christmas In the Heart," isn't horrible -- the tasteful but never melodramatic arrangements and his top-notch band are along for the sleigh ride -- it is ill-conceived, even if all of the proceeds do go to charity. Dylan's voice is a unique, interesting, compelling instrument used to best effect on his own bluesy, harrowing work. But it is, and never should be, comforting, as it strives to be here.
-- David Burger
